Patrick O`Connor

Patrick O’Connor has a long career in the field of oncology drug discovery and development. His contributions include over 100 publications and patents, and over 20 compounds brought successfully into development, including the recently approved anticancer drugs Xalkori (Crizotinib, PF-234,1066) and Inlyta (Axitinib, AG-13736), discovered while at Pfizer, where Patrick served as the Global Research Therapeutic Area Head for Oncology. Several additional investigative agents that Patrick helped bring into early clinical development are currently undergoing trials in cancer patients, including PF-136,7338 (PARP, PII, Pfizer/Clovis), PF-344,6962 (Anti-ALK mAb, PI, Pfizer), RDEA119 (MEK, Phase II, Ardea/Bayer), and PEGPH20 (HA, Phase I, Halozyme). Patrick is a Co-Founder of Selexagen Therapeutics that licensed the B-RAF Adaptation Inhibitor Program to Ruga Corporation where he now oversees Oncology activities. He also serves as one of the Senior Editors at the journal Cancer Research and is a member of the Scientific Advisory Boards of Molecular Response and Deciphera Pharmaceuticals. Prior to joining the pharmaceutical industry, Patrick spent 10 years at the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Maryland investigating the molecular underpinnings of chemosensitivity. He has a Ph.D. in Experimental Oncology Therapeutics from Manchester University, England.